SHILLONG, MAR 10: West Garo Hills District Magistrate Vibhor Aggarwal on Tuesday requested the army to conduct a flag march in the plain‑belt villages rocked by communal unrest linked to non‑tribal participation in the April 10 Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC) elections.

In a letter to the Commanding Officer of 101 Area, Eastern Command, Aggarwal said, “I respectfully request the assistance of the Army to conduct a flag march in the plain belt areas of West Garo Hills district, in view of the prevailing tense law and rder situation in the area.”

The district magistrate wrote that opposition to the participation of non‑tribals in the GHADC elections has disturbed public peace and tranquillity,” and that “recently, there have been communal tension between two groups and public unrest.”

“The presence of armed forces will greatly help in reassuring the public, preventing any further untoward incidents, and restoring confidence among the residents,” he said adding “…a flag march by the Army will serve as a visible demonstration of preparedness and commitment to maintaing peace and stability in the area.”

The district magistrate also assured that the local administration and police will extend full cooperation to facilitate the same.